COVID Vaccination Planning for Staff of Long-Term Care Services Providers
Alaska is preparing for the first COVID-19 vaccine shipments to arrive by the end of 2020. Because long-term care facility staff may be recommended for early vaccination, particularly in facilities serving seniors, it is important that you and your staff are prepared and have a plan in place.
As of November 4, 2020, four vaccines had begun the last of three stages of clinical trials in the U.S. to test safety and effectiveness. After the FDA approves a vaccine, based on based on the results of clinical trials, the CDC will recommend which populations should receive the vaccine first. These recommendations are guided by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP).
Because long-term care facility staff may be recommended to receive the vaccine first, the State of Alaska COVID-19 Vaccine Task Force is asking staff in these facilities to be prepared to receive the vaccine once it arrives in Alaska.
- There is no State of Alaska requirement for anyone to receive the COVID-19 vaccine; staff can decide whether they want to receive it.
- The initial vaccination locations will be select pharmacies and Community Health Centers.
- Once vaccines are available, you will be sent a calendar of dates, times and locations where the vaccination will be available.
- You must pre-register and schedule an appointment; vaccines will not be available on a walk-in basis.
- Depending on the vaccine, two appointments may be required one for the 1st dose and one for the 2nd dose three or four weeks later.
When more details are available, you will receive information about registration and vaccination via RA message. Visit DHSS COVID-19 Vaccine Information and Alaska Medicaid Health Enterprise for the latest updates.
DHSS Distributing CARES Act Funding to Support Residential Congregate Care Facilities
On 11/06/2020, the Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) issued a press release announcing the upcoming distribution of approximately $4 million in CARES Act funds to residential congregate care facilities to help address additional expenses incurred as a direct result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Assisted living homes, skilled nursing facilities and other residential congregate facilities approved by DHSS will be eligible to receive a one-time flat rate payment to help offset expenses related to COVID-19.
To receive the funds, providers must submit a signed attestation agreeing that funds will be used for approved purposes only. The attestation must be emailed to residentialcares@alaska.gov no later than 5:00 p.m., November 20, 2020.
Questions? Contact Jana Atonio at 907.782.5267 or 907.269.7380.
Have You Renewed and Updated Your Licenses Expiring 12/31/2020?
Alaska Medicaid would like to remind all providers to check licensure expiration dates. Many professional and business licenses have not been renewed and/or updated with Alaska Medicaid Provider Enrollment. These licenses must be renewed and updated by 12/31/2020 to avoid claim denials beginning 01/01/2021. Please submit a copy of each renewed license to Conduent by fax to 907.646.4273, or by mail to:
Conduent State Healthcare
Attn: Enrollment Services
P.O. Box 240808
Anchorage, AK 99524-0808
Questions? Contact Provider Enrollment at 907.644.6800, option 2, or toll-free in Alaska at 800.770.5650, option 1, 3.
New Website to Help Address Health Care Workforce Shortages and Improve Care
The Alaska Division of Senior and Disabilities Services, ADvancing States and Centene Corporation, in a unique public-private partnership, have developed and launched ConnectToCareJobs, a website designed to help address health care workforce shortages during the COVID-19 public health emergency and beyond. ConnectToCareJobs links residential facilities (e.g. skilled nursing facilities, assisted living facilities) that need employees with health care professionals who need jobs. The initial launch is focused on residential care facilities, however the site may be expanded to include hospitals and home care agencies in subsequent phases.
2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)
DHSS is closely monitoring an outbreak of respiratory illness caused by a novel coronavirus. Learn more about 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19). Please check back frequently for new information and important updates.
Contact Tracer Information
Do you want to serve as a contact tracer, or supervise contact tracers? Visit the DHSS Emergency Operations Center’s “How can I volunteer or help?” page for more information.
Health Mandates Remain in Effect
Please continue to monitor COVID-19 updates on the Reopen Alaska Responsibly page.
Alaska Responders Relief Line – 844.985.8275
Recognizing the unique stressors that providers face, the Division of Behavioral Health has established a 24/7 support line, 844.985.8275, for healthcare and behavioral professionals impacted by COVID personally and professionally. Staff supporting the call line recognize callers are often first responders and will allows callers to openly express their experiences and feelings serving Alaskans impacted by COVID. This service is also available to immediate family members of first responders who may be experiencing stress, anxiety and other hard to label emotions as a result of their loved one engaging on the front lines.
Temporary Expansion of Telehealth Services
COVID-19 Messages
